A new study reveals that college students who use dating apps are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, including having multiple partners and inconsistent protection practices. The research comes as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) reach concerning levels globally, with the US seeing dramatic increases in several common infections over the past two decades.
Journal: Frontiers in Reproductive Health, November 15, 2024, DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1453423 | Reading time: 4 minutes
Dating Apps and Risk Behaviors
“Here we show the use of dating apps among college students is linked to an increase in unprotected sexual behaviors and a higher number of sexual partners, raising the risk of STI and HIV transmission,” explains Dr. Jaquetta Reeves from the University of Texas at Arlington.
The study surveyed 122 college students aged 19-35 in northern Texas through anonymous online questionnaires. Students using dating apps were 2.2 times more likely to report multiple sexual partners and 1.4 times more likely to combine sex with alcohol consumption compared to non-users.
A Complex Relationship
The research identified several concerning patterns. Students who started sexual activity between ages 16-19 were 1.5 times more likely to use dating apps than those who began later. App users were also 1.8 times more likely to seek STI screening at campus clinics.
“Causality between risky sexual behaviors and dating app use likely flows both ways,” notes Reeves. “Dating apps make it easier to find casual partners, which can lead to risky behaviors like inconsistent condom use. Conversely, individuals already engaging in risky behaviors may turn to dating apps for partners who share similar practices.”
Breaking the Cycle
The researchers recommend several interventions, including integrating sexual health education into apps, promoting safer sex through youth campaigns, and using technology for testing reminders. These steps could help address rising STI rates, which have seen dramatic increases – including a 400% rise in syphilis cases since 2000.
Glossary
- STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection): Infections spread through sexual contact
- Sexual health screening: Medical tests for detecting STIs and HIV
- Risk behaviors: Actions that increase the likelihood of negative health outcomes
- Intervention: Planned action to improve a health situation
Test Your Knowledge
1. How much more likely were dating app users to have multiple sexual partners?
Dating app users were 2.2 times more likely to report having more than one sexual partner over the past year.
2. What age group showed higher likelihood of dating app use?
Those who had their first sexual encounter between ages 16-19 were 1.5 times more likely to use dating apps than those who started at 20 or later.
3. How much more likely were app users to seek STI screening?
App users were 1.8 times more likely to undergo HIV/STI screening at campus clinics.
4. What percentage increase in syphilis cases has occurred since 2000?
Syphilis cases have increased by 400% since 2000.
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